Italy Visa Dubai: Eligibility, Requirements, and How to Apply

Italy, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and delectable cuisine, is a dream destination for many. But if you’re travelling to Italy from Dubai, you’ll most likely need a visa. 

This blog post simplifies the process for you, whether you’re a UAE citizen or resident. We’ll cover everything you need to know about eligibility, requirements, and the step-by-step application process for an Italy visa from Dubai. 

So, pack your bags (figuratively, for now), and get ready to dive into the world of Italian visas!

Source

What You Need to Know Before Applying for Italy Visa from Dubai

Before you begin your Italian visa application journey, there are a few key steps to consider:

1. Find the Perfect Visa:  Identify the visa type that best suits your trip to Italy. Not sure which one? 
2. Gather Your Documents:  Once you’ve selected the visa type, you’ll need to research and compile the required documents. 
3. Know the Timeline and Costs:  Visa applications can take time, so understanding the processing timeframe is crucial.
4. Follow the Guidelines:  Each visa category has specific requirements. We’ll ensure your application adheres to the relevant guidelines for a smooth process.
5. Translation Needs:  If your documents aren’t in English, make sure to translate them before applying.

Source

Schengen Visa

Before you apply, you need to understand the perfect visa for you, as stated above. One such Visa type you should consider is the Schengen visa.  

It unlocks a world of travel possibilities within Europe, including Italy.  Encompassing 27 countries, the Schengen Area allows citizens and visitors to move freely without border checks.  

This concept of free movement originated with the 1985 Schengen Agreement, which involved most EU countries except Ireland.

A Schengen visa is a short-stay visa ideal for tourism, business trips, or visiting family. It allows you to explore multiple countries within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180 days. This eliminates the need for separate visas for each nation you visit, offering a convenient and streamlined travel experience.

The type of Schengen visa you receive (single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry) will depend on your specific needs and the final approval from the visa authorities.

However, it’s important to remember that the Schengen visa is intended for shorter stays.  If you plan on residing in the Schengen region for extended periods for work or study, you’ll likely need a different type of visa or residence permit.

You may check each visa type information here.

Required Documents for Italy Visa Application (Dubai Residents):

• Application form: Duly completed and signed 
• Passport Photo: One recent colour photo with a white background (max. 6 months old)
• Valid Passport: Original and copy, meeting validity and blank page requirements 
• Valid UAE Residence Visa: Copy with at least 90 days validity upon return 
• Previous Visa Copy (Optional): If applicable, a copy of a prior Schengen, US, or UK 
• Employment Documents (if applicable):

• No Objection Certificate: From employer, including contact details and passport/visa copy 
• Employment Contract: Copy of your valid employment contract 
• Trade License Copy (if applicable): For business owners 

• Proof of Financial Means:
  • Bank Statements: Last 3 months from a UAE bank account 
  • OR Pay Slips: Last 3 months of payslips 
  • OR Credit Card Statements: Last 3 months for a valid international credit card 
  • OR Additional Documentation: Other documents like property ownership or investment proofs  (Bank statements need to be on official letterhead and stamped originals or copies)

• Travel and Insurance:
  • Emergency Medical expenses: Valid international coverage for €30,000 minimum, including hospitalisation, repatriation, and benefits details 
• Accommodation Booking: Confirmation of your hotel stay
  • OR Letter of Invitation: If staying with someone, provide a letter inviting you 
• Flight Booking: Confirmation for a direct flight (highly recommended) (Item 12)
• Additional Requirement (Dubai Residents):
  • GDRFA Return Permit: Issued by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (Item 13)

Source

Step-by-step Guide to Italy Visa Dubai Application

Here is your easy guide to Italy Visa Application in Dubai.

Step 1. Fill in the Application Online

Go to  https://videx.diplo.de to fill out the visa online. You will be asked to give the following information:

• Personal data of the applicant
• Profession
• Contact details
• Identity documents and travel documents
  • Type of travel document
  • National identity number, if applicable
  • Issue date (DD.MM.YYYY)
  • Valid until (DD.MM.YYYY)
  • Issuing state:
  • Issued by and Issued in
• Biometric data
• Travel data
  • Purpose(s) of the trip
  • Further information about the purpose of your stay
  • Member State of first entry
  • Main destination(s)
  • Number of entries requested
  • The planned arrival date of the first planned stay in the Schengen area
  • Planned departure date from the Schengen area after the first planned stay
• If necessary, an Entry permit for the country of the final destination
• Reference
• Travel expenses and living expenses
• Means of making a living

Print the completed form and submit it to the Visa Application Centre.

Step 2. Book an Appointment

Securing your visa requires scheduling an appointment at the application centre beforehand. Walk-ins are not accepted. You can secure your slot with immediate confirmation by paying the service fee with a credit card (all taxes included). 

You’ll receive a visa appointment letter and receipt via email. Remember, each applicant needs a separate appointment and application.

Additional Information:

• Appointment Center Selection: Choose the Dubai or Abu Dhabi application centre that suits you. Appointments cannot be transferred between centres.
• High Demand: Schedule your appointment well in advance due to high demand.
• Unsuccessful Payment: If your payment fails, you can reschedule after one hour.
• Rescheduling and Cancellations: Appointments can be rescheduled twice, up to two days prior, subject to availability. Further changes or cancellations within three days will incur a new service charge.
• No-Shows: If you don’t plan to attend, cancel your appointment at least 72 hours beforehand.

Step 3. Play the Application Fee

The visa application fee is due upon submission. If you download the application form for printing, you’ll pay the fee in cash or by card at the Visa Application Centre during your appointment.

Here’s the table summarising the visa application fees for tourist visas.

Source

Important Fee Information: Visa fees are set by the Embassy or VFS Global and are based on current exchange rates. These fees may change without notice. In addition to the visa fee, a separate service charge applies. This charge is AED 83.72 per application in Dubai and AED 108.92 in Abu Dhabi (all taxes included).

Please note that all fees are non-refundable.

Step 4. Visit a Visa Application Centre

On your scheduled appointment date, head to the designated Visa Application Centre. Here, you’ll personally submit your completed visa application form. 

What to Expect in the Application Centre

• Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment to ensure a smooth check-in process.
• Only you, the applicant, a caregiver for someone requiring assistance, or an adult accompanying a child under 18 can enter the centre.

• What to Bring:
  • A printed copy of your completed visa application form.
  • Your valid passport or travel document with at least two blank pages on both sides.
  • All required supporting documents (originals and copies).
• You can do so at the centre if you haven’t paid your visa fee online.

Biometrics Collection

• Submitting fingerprints and a photograph (biometrics) is mandatory.
• A digital scanner will capture images of all ten fingers. The process is quick, discreet, and doesn’t use ink or chemicals.
• Your photo must show your full face without sunglasses, tinted glasses, or headwear (unless for religious or medical reasons).

Important Notes:

• Ensure your fingertips are free from henna (mehndi) or other markings that may affect the scan.
• Children under 12 don’t need to provide fingerprints, but they must attend the appointment.
• Children under 18 require an accompanying adult (not VFS Global staff).
• Missed appointments require rescheduling after 24 hours.
• Incomplete biometrics will cause application delays.

Biometrics Exemptions:

• You are exempt from fingerprints but still need to attend your appointment if:
• You are under 12 years old.
• Fingerprint collection is physically impossible (medical certificate required).
• You are a Head of State, a government member, or on an official diplomatic mission (with proof).

Remember: Once fingerprints are collected, they are generally valid for 59 months for future visa applications. 

Step 5. Track Your Application

After submitting your application, you can stay informed about its progress. The Visa Application Centre will send an email notification once a decision is reached. 

If you prefer SMS updates or don’t have reliable email access, inquire about this service at your appointment centre.  Additionally, you can track your application status online using the reference number provided on your invoice/receipt, along with your last name.

Step 6.  Collect Your Passport

Once a decision is made on your visa application, you have two options for retrieving your passport:

• Collect in Person: Visit the Visa Application Centre with the original receipt you received and a valid form of UAE government identification (Emirates ID).
• Delivery by Courier (if available): For an additional fee, you can have your passport returned to you by courier. This option may be the only choice at some centres.
• Sending a Representative (if permitted): If in-person collection isn’t possible and your chosen centre allows it, you can authorise someone to collect your passport on your behalf. They will need your signed letter of authorisation, the original receipt, and their valid UAE government ID.

Conclusion

Obtaining an Italian visa from Dubai is an achievable feat with the right preparation and knowledge. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll navigate the application process smoothly. 

Remember, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, gather the necessary documents, schedule your appointment, and submit your application well in advance. With a little planning and organisation, you’ll be well on your way to exploring the rich history, delectable cuisine, and captivating landscapes that Italy has to offer.

Buon viaggio! (Have a good trip!)